A new leadership structure
The Vancouver Canucks unveiled a sweeping reshuffle of their hockey operations on Thursday, naming former player Ryan Johnson as the club’s new general manager and appointing twins Daniel and Henrik Sedin to jointly oversee the department as co‑presidents of hockey operations.
The moves come after the organization dismissed former GM Patrik Allvin on April 17, a decision that followed a last‑place finish in the league and a season marked by underperformance. With Jim Rutherford slated to step down from his role as president of hockey operations before the upcoming draft, the front office is positioning itself for a fresh direction.
Johnson’s rise through the ranks
Johnson, who joined the Canucks’ front office in 2013 and was promoted to assistant general manager earlier this year, brings a decade‑plus of NHL playing experience and a familiarity with the club’s culture. His ascent reflects a continuity plan that the ownership hopes will stabilize a management structure that has seen several changes in recent years.
Sedin twins to share oversight
The Sedin twins, who retired in 2018 after 17 seasons that included a Stanley Cup final appearance in 2011, have been serving as special advisers since 2021. Their new responsibilities will see them share leadership of player development, scouting and strategic planning, leveraging their deep connections with the team and the city.
The transition also comes amid a broader search that examined more than 15 candidates for the general manager post, underscoring the significance of the role. As the club prepares for the draft, the new leadership will be tasked with translating a revamped roster into a competitive contender.